Kisharon goes Easy Read

Kisharon service users Meir Halpern (left), Yonaton Lev + Eli Cohen (seated) with a pilot edition of the charity’s K-NEWS produced in an Easy Read format. PHOTO: JOHN RIFKIN

Kisharon, the UK charity providing support for people with learning disabilities in the Jewish community, has produced a pilot edition of its K-News in an Easy Read format which can be understood by people with learning difficulties. This will be the first time the charity’s supporters have seen the online, monthly magazine in a simplified, more visual format which has less text and larger print.

The pilot edition launched this week was put together by K-News editor Natalie Kennard in consultation with Aviva Braunold and Hadassa Kessler of Kisharon’s adult services team.

Aviva Braunold said: “People who have [severe] learning disabilities may not understand normal text – to them, it is like Chinese, or another language that is hard to grasp. Easy read looks different but many prefer its clear format and it is brilliant for people with short attention spans who just want the facts.”

She added: “We use Easy Read on a daily basis for our communications to the people we support. Our job is to make information as easy and accessible as possible. Having K-News in Easy Read will reinforce that message. It is about creating an even playing field so that people are not alienated or excluded.”

Richard Franklin, Kisharon’s Director of Fundraising and Communications, said: “I’m a big fan of helping people to understand what learning difficulties are all about. This month has seen both the International Day of People of Disability and Disability History Month, so it is an appropriate time to trial this recognised format that will enable both our supporters and those we support to access Kisharon’s news.”

Mr Franklin continued: We want to champion attitudes towards disability and to put Kisharon into the forefront of people’s minds.”

About Kisharon

Kisharon provides the Jewish community with vital support for hundreds of people with learning difficulties and their families. The services, located over seven sites, cater for the needs of the learning disabled at every stage of their lives – from a nursery and school, right through to residential services and work opportunities. Kisharon provides support for each individual to develop their potential and live a fulfilling life within the community. www.kisharon.org.uk